We live in a hurting world, and sometimes, with so much pain around us, we try to shut it out. We do this to protect ourselves. And with so much access to information in a world with so much darkness, it can be healthy to set boundaries with what we expose ourselves to.

But we are called to share in one another’s feelings.

“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” — Romans 12:15

When we completely check out, we forget about the people who need our help, many of them in our own families, neighborhoods, and churches.

Lately, I’ve been reminded of my calling to open my eyes and heart to the needs of those around me. And today, I want to challenge you to do the same.

We all know people in our lives who are suffering. Some are dealing with what we might think of as “big problems” like a death in the family. Others are up against smaller challenges, like the fear that can come with starting a new job.

Look at the list below and think of at least one person in your life who matches one of these circumstances. Then, spend some time putting yourself in that person’s shoes. Imagine what it would be like to be them right now. What are they feeling? What are they in need of?

Ask God to help you understand their pain better and show you how you might be called to help.

Here’s the list. Think of someone in your life who is:

Grieving the loss of a loved one.

Going through a divorce.

Dealing with illness.

Serving time in prison.

Struggling to find a job.

Raising kids as a single parent.

If you simply can’t think of anyone in those circumstances, go to any local news website and pick one of the many tragic stories. Take a moment to imagine what it would be like to find yourself in that situation.

For the children of God to be ministers of His love, we have to remember how to feel.